Province expands Seniors Active Living Centres
The Ontario government is expanding access to services and activities for seniors through new Seniors Active Living Centres (SALC) programs. These programs provide social, cultural, learning, and recreational opportunities for seniors to stay fit, healthy and connected in their communities.
“Seniors Active Living Centres improve the lives of Ontario’s seniors,’’ said Raymond Cho, Minister for Seniors and Accessibility.
The number of seniors aged 65 and over is projected to increase significantly, from 2.8 million to 4.4 million by 2046.
Due to the overwhelming success of the more than 300 Seniors Active Living Centres delivered by municipalities, new changes to the Seniors Active Living Centres Act, 2017, came into effect June 1, 2024, enabling more types of organizations to deliver Seniors Active Living Centre programs.
In addition to municipalities, other local and community-based organizations, such as Legions, Lion’s Clubs, and recreational clubs, now offer programs.
Programs may include arts and culture programs, book clubs, fitness classes, health and wellness services, lifelong learning classes, multicultural social groups, recreation and leisure activities, and other special events.
“They will offer seniors from the entire community the opportunity to stay fit, active, healthy and socially connected through various activities,” said MPP Paul Calandra when referencing the local programs.
SALC programs offer seniors and older adults learning opportunities such as financial management and elder abuse prevention and a variety of recreational and social activities including fitness, healthy lifestyle and wellness classes that are important supports in communities.
The government remains committed to better supporting Ontario’s aging population and the people who care for them by improving and expanding supports for seniors no matter where they live.
In the Fall Economic Statement of 2024, a $17 million increase in funding over three years was approved to support up to 100 new Seniors Active Living Centres.
For 2025-26, SALC programs will be able to request up to $55,000 for maintenance and operating costs, an increase from the previous maximum of $50,000 in 2024 and up from $42,700 in base funding from 2023. Organizations that deliver SALC programming contribute 20 per cent of the cost, with the province providing the remaining 80 per cent.
Seniors can use the online search tool to find a program near them.